Welsh government to roll out bus franchising on regional basis

The Welsh government has confirmed plans to change the way local bus services are delivered across Wales based around a new franchising model to replace the current de-regulated system.

This will enable public, private or third sector operators to bid for packages of local bus services. It will lift restrictions on existing publicly owned bus companies, putting them on an equal footing with other bus operators.

Designed to deliver a more customer focused and integrated network the new model will mean decisions on routes, timetables and fares will be made by Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and local councils working collaboratively.

This, says the government, is a huge change for the bus industry and due to the complexities involved will take time to rollout across Wales. The changes will be introduced through a Bill which is expected to be introduced to the Senedd early next year. The rollout of a franchised model will be on regional basis - starting with south west Wales in 2027, north Wales in 2028, south in 2029 and mid-Wales in 2030.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates said, “Delivering a bus bill, which fundamentally changes the way bus services are delivered in Wales, is one of my key priorities.

“The new franchising model will help us make better use of the significant funding the Welsh Government provides to the bus industry and will allow us to design a network that works for people and communities – alleviating transport poverty to create a fairer and more equal Wales.”

The Welsh government recently released its draft budget for 2025-2026 promising £651m to improve, support and maintain public transport  – a 12% increase from 2024 to 2025.